Periodontal disease is responsible for the majority of cases of tooth loss in adults and prevention is your best weapon against it, but even in its early stages, your dentist can help reverse it. Scaling and root planing are treatments aimed at doing just that, and if you would like to learn much more about them please contact Dr. Alaa Ahmed and Dr. Islam Dehis of Putnam Family Dental in Putnam, CT.
Plaque and Decay
Plaque builds on our teeth every day and every day it must be removed by either brushing or flossing to keep it under control.
Some plaque typically remains and it can usually be removed during a regular office visit to your dentist's office during the dental cleaning portion.
If left untreated, the bacteria that live amid the plaque release acids which damage our teeth and our gums, thus leading to decay and gum disease.
How the Procedure Works
When a professional dental cleaning cannot eliminate all of the plaque, when it has progressed to beneath the gumline then your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. Local anesthesia is applied throughout the entirety of the procedure, but you may expect some discomfort for the days following.
Scaling is the process of removing the plaque that's accumulated on the tooth that's hidden by the gums.
The next step is to smooth, or plane, the roots of the teeth to make it difficult for plaque and tartar from building up again.
Periodontal and Surgical Services in Putnam, CT
Prevention takes many forms, from proper dental hygiene at home, to regular dental cleanings and checkups, to procedures like scaling and root planing, when necessary. Keeping plaque at bay requires that you and your dentist work together, so if you've been away from the office for some time, or are concerned, then make an appointment today with Dr. Ahmed and Dr. Dehis of Putnam Family Dental in Putnam, CT, by dialing (860) 928-5334.